Name: Amish Poor Man’s Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef; 1 cup milk; 1 cup saltine crackers, crushed; 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (optional); 2 cups beef broth; 1 packet or 2 tablespoons brown gravy mix; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

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I love this Amish Poor Man’s Steak because it’s the kind of old-fashioned comfort food that feels like it came straight from a family kitchen. I make tender ground beef patties, bake them slowly, and let them soak in a rich onion gravy until everything is soft, savory, and deeply satisfying. This is one of those humble meals I turn to when I want something filling, cozy, and simple. Amish Poor Man’s Steak

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it uses basic pantry ingredients and turns them into something incredibly comforting. I don’t need any fancy cuts of meat, and I still end up with a dish that tastes rich and homemade. I also appreciate how forgiving it is, since the slow baking keeps the meat moist and tender every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs ground beef
1 cup milk
1 cup saltine crackers, crushed
1 large onion, thinly sliced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced (optional)
2 cups beef broth
1 packet or 2 tablespoons brown gravy mix
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 325°F (165°C). In a large bowl, I mix the ground beef, milk, crushed crackers, salt, and pepper until everything is just combined. I shape the mixture into oval patties and set them aside.

In a skillet over medium heat, I heat the oil and lightly brown the patties on both sides. I don’t cook them through, I just want some color. I transfer the patties to a baking dish.

Using the same skillet, I sauté the sliced onions and mushrooms until they soften. I stir in the beef broth and gravy mix, letting it simmer until slightly thickened. I pour this gravy over the patties, cover the dish with foil, and bake it for about one hour until the meat is tender and the gravy is rich.

Servings And Timing

I usually make this recipe to serve 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy for deeper flavor. When I want extra richness, I mix a little sour cream into the gravy near the end. If I don’t have saltines, I use crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs instead.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm everything gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of broth if the gravy has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I often prepare the patties and gravy earlier in the day, then bake everything just before serving.

Can I freeze Amish Poor Man’s Steak?

I freeze it after baking and cooling completely. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Do I have to use mushrooms?

I skip them sometimes, and the dish is still delicious with just onions and gravy.

What can I serve with this dish?

I like serving it with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or buttered green beans.

Why is it called Poor Man’s Steak?

I understand it as a budget-friendly alternative to steak that still delivers hearty, comforting flavor.

Conclusion

I keep coming back to Amish Poor Man’s Steak because it’s simple, filling, and full of nostalgic comfort. Every time I make it, I’m reminded that great food doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated to feel special.